DEAR EDITOR:

I am writing to my fellow citizens of Trumbull County. I usually stay out of politics, but I cannot stay silent on this.

Judge Thomas Campbell has served our community for over 30 years and is one of the most respected members of our legal system.

I was disappointed to see the negative campaign tactics used against him. Voters should remember that judges can only rule on cases brought before them by the prosecutor, and there is often more to a story than what appears in campaign materials. As someone who has also lost a child, I find it despicable to use that kind of tragedy for political gain.

What really matters is experience. I know this from my own personal experience — I worked as Tom Campbell’s legal assistant for three years. During that time, I saw firsthand his intelligence, fairness and deep understanding of the law.

Over the years, my entire family has entrusted him with legal matters involving our loved ones. Judges have a very important job in our communities. They have to make tough decisions that most of us would not want to make.

Tom has been a judge in the Trumbull County Central District Court for over 31 years. He has the experience, knowledge and professionalism that have earned him the respect of Trumbull County residents and the legal community, as reflected by his endorsement from the Trumbull County Bar Association.

That is why my husband and I will be voting for Tom Campbell for Trumbull County Probate Court.

Thank you for taking the time to read my opinion.

SHARON GROVER

Middlefield